Understanding The VA Steps

The US Department of Veterans Affairs is set up into 3 different departments and depending on what you seek as a veteran will determine which department you deal with.

Veterans Health Administration (Link: http://www.va.gov/health/default.asp) – Their mission is to administer the health care to veterans. This department runs the VA Medical Facilities, Community Based Outreach Centers, and Vet Centers. If you are applying for VA Health Care services your application will be sent to a medical center near you.

Veterans Benefits Administration (Link: http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/) – This department handles the benefits veterans may be entitled to and/or eligible for. This includes; compensation for service connected injuries, non-service connected pensions, educational, vocational, home loans, and other benefits the veteran is applying for. Veteran Affairs Regional Offices accept the forms for these inquiries.

National Cemetery Administration (Link: http://www.cem.va.gov/) – This handles the burial benefits veterans are entitled to, as well as, maintaining the National cemeteries around the country.